The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cyber Crime Wing has registered the first case for spreading fake and fabricated news online, in Karachi.
In a landmark move against digital misinformation, the suspect, identified as Saifur Rehman, a resident of Gulshan-e-Iqbal Block 1, is alleged to have used social media to spread propaganda during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest in November.
The case was filed under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), citing the use of an individual's social media account to disseminate fake news and the use derogatory language against the state and its institutions.
According to the FIA, a technical analysis of the accused's Twitter account revealed several posts promoting anti-state rhetoric. The account was reportedly active during the inquiry, consistently publishing content aimed at undermining state institutions.
Also Read: Govt launches crackdown on propaganda against state, security forces
On Dec 6, the federal government officially decided to launch a nationwide crackdown on individuals involved in spreading anti-state propaganda, particularly targeting those who propagate negative narratives against security institutions.
Joint teams of security agencies and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) cybercrime wing were planned to be formed at the federal and provincial levels with powers of arrest and investigation against individuals engaged in such activities.
The teams would have full support from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and other related institutions. Cybersecurity experts would also be included, and all necessary resources provided to ensure the effective tracking and investigation of social media accounts involved in anti-national content.
Also Read: 5-year jail term, Rs1m fine for spreading fake news
The cybercrime units, operating under the federal government, would have the power to conduct raids and make arrests anywhere in the country. Their primary responsibility included identifying the origins of fake or harmful accounts on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media apps. The teams would be responsible for finding out the details of accounts on social media apps.
A day priot to this, authorities registered an FIR against 12 individuals accused of posting defamatory and provocative content on social media, targeting state institutions, and disrupting public order.
According to security sources, the suspects hailed from Karachi, Sanghar, Quetta, Pishin, Qila Abdullah, and Swat. They were allegedly engaged in activities promoting rebellion and undermining state affairs through inflammatory and defamatory social media posts.
Also Read: FIR filed against 12 for 'anti-state' social media posts
On Dec 3, the federal government decided to amend the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) to tackle the spread of fake news and other illegal content.
A proposed draft outlined 16 categories of unlawful material, including fake news, content inciting hatred against state institutions, and the dissemination of fear and panic.
Violators would face up to five years in prison or a fine of Rs1 million under the new provisions.
The draft also included the establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA) to oversee content regulation. The authority would consist of a chairperson and six members.
